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Easy Ground Beef Quinoa Skillet (30-Minutes)

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A quick and easy one-pan meal made with ground beef, quinoa, vegetables, and savory spices. Perfect for busy weeknights and ready in just 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  5. Drain excess fat if needed.
  6. Stir in quinoa, beef broth, bell pepper, zucchini, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
  8. Simmer for 20 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese if using.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian (with plant-based meat).
  • Add black beans or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg